Please see the attached message from City Manager Paul Johnson.
The news of recent violence in the Middle East has been disturbing and upsetting to many staff and Torontonians, especially those from the Jewish community.
Last evening, flags were lowered to half-mast at City buildings, including Toronto Paramedic Services’ Headquarters and Service Districts. The flags will remain lowered until sunset this evening.
Our hearts are with all who have been impacted by these events. If you are struggling with this difficult situation, or are in need of support, please reach out for help, or visit the Staff Blog for more resources:
Telus Health (City of Toronto) EAP: 1-833-382-5610 or 437-880-7228
Peer Resource Team: 1-855-778-8367
Sincerely,
Bik
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In the wake of the unconscionable violence that began with the attacks on Israel on Saturday, I’d like to take this opportunity to share how the City has responded, recognizing the human toll of this attack. For many, I know these events are deeply personal and may impact your loved ones here and abroad directly.
Throughout the weekend, members of the Senior Leadership reached out, and were in communications with different political, religious and community leaders.
As you may have seen, our Protocol team ensured all official flags at Toronto City Hall, Metro Hall and Civic Centres (East York, Etobicoke, York, North York, Scarborough) were lowered to half-mast on Monday morning. The flags will remain lowered until sunset this evening.
City staff worked with community leaders and the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto throughout the weekend to permit a gathering at Mel Lastman Square on Monday evening, where civic leaders and members of the public had the opportunity to mourn, pray and show their support for Israelis in the wake of this violence.
Last night, between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., the Toronto sign was lit in the blue and white of the Israeli flag in solidarity with Israel and in condemnation of terrorism and hate. This sentiment was also shared on the City’s official social media channels.
Some of you, along with members of the public, expressed concern regarding protests that occurred in the community including some mentioning Nathan Phillips Square as a location. It is important to note that the City of Toronto does not provide permits for protests that take place on city-owned land. Considerable misinformation was shared on this subject; for this reason, it is important to reiterate that all people have a right to peaceful protest and when this right is violated, police are charged with maintaining order. It is worth noting that Mayor Chow communicated over the weekend on this subject.
I want to thank our Corporate Security team and the Toronto Police Service for their hard work and commitment to every effort made to protect the safety of the public and public property.
The events over the weekend are horrendous and there are no words that can accurately express the magnitude of the devastation, destruction and loss of life. My thoughts and prayers are with those mourning the loss of loved ones and those struggling with the agony of not knowing what has happened to those who have been taken hostage.
Regards,
Paul
Paul Johnson
City Manager
City of Toronto